Brisbane Lions’ midfielder Simon Black says the fourth quarter of their 2002 Grand Final against Collingwood was the most memorable moment of his career.
The Lions, attempting to defend their maiden 2001 premiership, were heavy favourites against the Pies, with Black earlier that week named the Brownlow medallist. But a wet Melbourne morning made the MCG an even playing field.
“You woke up that morning of the final and knew it was going to be a really tough, contested game,” Black said.
That’s exactly what it was. The wet, heavy track exhausted players quickly and only four points were between the two sides going into the final term.
“The last quarter was one where every moment, every contest could determine the result of the game. It was such an amazing game to be a part of,” Black said.
“Great players have big impacts in big moments and Vossy’s [Michael Voss] last quarter was obviously enormous.”
Black says his Captain’s performance was inspired and the moment Voss took a contested mark off Collingwood’s Scott Burns is etched in his memory.
“Our great skipper stood up when it mattered most.
“To stand up as a team in that last quarter was quite incredible.”
The following year it was Black’s turn to stand up. He was instrumental in the Lions’ third straight premiership victory over Collingwood. Black was awarded the 2003 Norm Smith Medal for best on ground, after collecting 39 disposals and one goal in the Lions 50 point victory.
Previous episodes of the Premiership Pride:
Episode Three: Marcus Ashcroft
